Opening Film Review: Kung Fu Hustle

Stephen Chow is without doubt, the greatest comedy actor alive. Having grown up with his nonsense, he’s my constant source of inspiration for deadpan humour, silly slapstick and dry wit. So it comes as no surprise that I entered the cinema with mad anticipation; it has been 3 long years since I caught the scintillating Shaolin Soccer.

SC has long idolized Bruce Lee, and so being the director himself, is able to fulfill his childhood dreams of paying homage to his late idol and the legend of Kung Fu. The end-product is a CGI effects laden martial arts comedy fest that leaves nothing for the imagination. Which is of course, not a necessarily good comment.

The fighting scenes are top-notch, no arguments about that. A generous amount of screen time is dedicated to past Kung Fu legends who really do bring out the beauty of fist fights, wooden staff wielding and stunning footwork. Added to the effects, it is one hell of a Kung Fu film. Herein lies the problem: There is simply not enough of SC and his brand of madcap nonsense that he’s so capable of producing. The limited times when he flexed his comedic muscles were the most brilliant moments of the film, and not those when he ripped off his shirt to reveal his impressive six-pac or his little-known martial arts skills. I only wish I could laugh as hard and as much as in his previous efforts. Still, SC should be respected and admired for putting himself in a backseat and letting his love of Kung Fu take centerestage.

However, to the non-SC fanatics, this is a lovable film that will guarantee a great time in the theatre. Credit must be given to the incredible supporting cast, like the wonderfully casted Yuen Qiu as the colourful loud-mouthed (literally) landlady, who give the film the extra edge in entertainment value. There is no better way to enjoy comedies than to experience the joy of laughing heartily together with fellow audiences in the cinema.

Who should watch: Kung Fu fans and anyone who is dying for some quick laughs

Who shouldn’t watch: SC fanatics who’ll kill themselves if this isn’t as good as Shaolin Soccer

Rating: 7.7